There's nothing that gets us more pumped for the on-the-way Oktoberfest season than staggering about to an oompah band at a German bar. But whether it's an old-as-dirt stalwart or a new interpretation, German bars generate a lot of opinions. Here's what Metromix readers have to say about a few spots around town. Prost 2566 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-880-9900 This year-old Lincoln Park tap has the feel of a classic German beer hall, with communal seating and super-sized mugs, including the legendary 2-liter boot.

By AMANDA PETRUSICH, NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE; BEN RATLIFF, NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE AND GLENN GAMBOA, NEWSDAY | June 3, 2008

Weezer "WEEZER" RATING: 3 EXCLAMATION POINTS On "Weezer," the band's sixth album, singer Rivers Cuomo trades self-pity for bravado, contemplating middle age with an album full of adolescent kiss-offs. The single "Pork and Beans" mixes demographic-warping references (Timbaland, Oakley shades, Rogaine) with a defiant chorus: "I'm a do the things that I want to do/I ain't got a thing to prove to you." Overall, this new CD relies on familiar formulas: twitchy, sing-along choruses, lyrical and musical in-jokes and affable vocal harmonies.

DRINK THIS: Raspberry Beret, $10 With due respect to His Purpleness, you wouldn't find this in a second-hand store. No, you'll find this cocktail of Bacardi Raz, Bacardi Limon, raspberry puree and lemonade at River North hot spot Rockit Bar & Grill (22 W. Hubbard St. 312-645-6000). Sip one on the sidewalk patio, but make it quick, because if it was warm you wouldn't drink much more. (Sorry, we can can't get it out of our heads ... ) - Karen Budell, metromix nightlife producer - - - FEST FLASH Mayfest When: 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday; noon Saturday and Sunday Where: Leland and Lincoln Avenues in Lincoln Square Entry: Free Get there: No. 11 Lincoln/Sedgwick bus; Western Brown Line "L" stop The basics: Ready for Mayfest, part two?

Yes, it's chilly this week. But you're tired of being cooped up in the house. And isn't man's best friend long overdue for some fresh air too? Thanks to a new ordinance, the city now officially allows dogs on bar and restaurant patios. But that doesn't mean you can just bring Bowser anywhere. Need help navigating the new dog-friendly scene? Our new Reader Review crew, the Patio Hounds, will be your guides. Tonight at Moonshine, we continue the search for the savvy city dwellers -- and their equally savvy dogs -- who'll join our crew.

If you've been overdoing it recently, consider checking into Monday night Rehab at Evil Olive (1551 W. Division St. 773- 235-9100). Last week we snapped photos at the weekly party with DJ Jordan Z (below, with headphones). See if we spotted you: Find more photos at metromix. com. [CHUAN D. VO PHOTOS FOR METROMIX]

Park 52 5201 S. Harper Ave.; 773-241-5200 Now that he's finally settled on a name, Jerry Kleiner's long-anticipated Hyde Park spot is set to pop on April 8. Kleiner (Room 21, Red Light, Carnivale), who partners with Marc Brooks for this venture, says Park 52 will offer a toned-down version of his signature style. Executive chef Chris Barron, who has worked at Kleiner's Red Light, is preparing classic American comfort food: burgers, steaks, chicken and salads, topping out at $36 for a bone-in rib-eye.